This episode of the Irish Global Solidarity in 100 Objects podcast features Mary Lawlor, UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Defenders. With nearly 50 years of experience in human rights work, Lawlor has fought tirelessly to protect those at risk for defending justice and equality.
Her career began as a volunteer with Amnesty International, later becoming a fundraiser before serving as its director in Ireland for 12 years. Recognising a gap in protections for human rights defenders, she founded Front Line Defenders in 2001 to support activists under threat worldwide.
In 2020, she was appointed as the UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights Defenders, where she continues to advocate for those risking their lives to uphold justice, amplifying their voices at the international level.
This episode also discusses From The Republic of Conscience, a poem written by Seamus Heaney in 1985 for Amnesty International’s 25th anniversary. The poem highlights the moral responsibility of individuals to uphold human rights, values that align with Lawlor’s lifelong work.
Note to Listeners: This episode includes a discussion on sensitive topics involving harm to human rights activists and harm to infants.
The Irish Global Solidarity in 100 Objects podcast is hosted by Ciara Regan.
Brought to you by developmenteducation.ie and supported by Irish Aid.
This episode was produced by Tony Daly and Catherine Howley. Music by Jump Lead.
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